Calling inspiring Vic seniors

The search for stand out senior Victorians who are an inspiration to their local community has begun with nominations now open for the 2012 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards.

Minister for Ageing, David Davis, yesterday (Tuesday, 15 May 2012) invited people to nominate seniors who make a real difference to their local communities.

“Established more than 20 years ago, Senior of the Year Awards promote the achievements of senior Victorians and demonstrate the benefits of positive ageing,” he said.

“The awards recognise and celebrate the many women and men, aged 60 years and over, who make extraordinary contributions through active involvement in their communities and by supporting and inspiring others.”

There are five awards categories:

• Premier’s Award for Victorian Senior of the Year for an outstanding contribution to their local community and Victoria;
• Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria Senior Achiever Award for significant contributions to their local communities and Victoria;
• Promotion of Multiculturalism Award for a significant contribution to promoting cultural diversity;
• Healthy and Active Living Award for helping create active and healthy communities; and
• Veteran Community Award for an exceptional contribution to the veteran community.

Mr Davis said a diverse range of people are nominated for awards each year, with nominees aged between 60 and 95 years and from all parts of Victoria.

“Each and every day selfless seniors across Victoria are making an exceptional contribution to their local communities,” Mr Davis said.

“Seniors will be recognised with awards for their dedicated volunteer work, talents and achievements, as well as encouraging active lifestyles and promoting cultural diversity.”

Last year, 82-year-old Warracknabeal senior, Doug McColl OAM, was named winner of the Premier’s Award for Victorian Senior of the Year for his visionary leadership and contribution to the Warracknabeal community as historian, gardener and fund raiser.

The 2012 awards will be presented at a reception at Government House on 5 October. The awards will be part of Victoria’s celebrations for the United Nations International Day of Older Persons on 1 October and the 30th Victorian Seniors Festival from 7 to 14 October 2012.

To nominate someone for an award, visit Seniors Online at www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au or call Seniors Information Victoria on 1300 135 090 for a nomination form.

Nominees must be residents of Victoria aged 60 years or over. Nominations close 20 July 2012.